The Maono PD300X USB/XLR Dynamic Podcasting Microphone is Maono’s latest attempt to shake up the content creation space. Aimed at podcasters, streamers, and musicians, this mic brings a mix of professional-grade sound and plug-and-play convenience with its dual USB and XLR connectivity. I received the Maono PD300X at the Digit Test Centre, along with the BA37 boom arm, and put it through gaming, voice-over work, and podcast recordings. Priced at around $99.99 (around INR 8,500), does it hold up against industry favourites like the Rode PodMic or the Audio-Technica ATR2100x? Let’s find out.
Right out of the box, the Maono PD300X feels solid. The all-metal body gives it a premium vibe, while the matte black finish ensures it looks the part in any setup. The included BA37 boom arm, sent for review, is sturdy and smooth to operate, though at its price point, third-party options might be more budget-friendly.
The mic keeps things simple with a multifunctional knob that controls mic gain, headphone volume, and monitoring. There’s also a dedicated mute button for quick silencing. The LED indicators help monitor audio levels at a glance. The mic sports both a USB-C port for digital setups and an XLR output for those going the analogue route.
Positioning is easy, thanks to the adjustable hinge, and when paired with the BA37 boom arm, it’s even better. However, if you’re looking to save some money, you could opt for a more affordable third-party boom arm.
Inside the box:
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The PD300X packs in some serious features. The mic delivers a 192kHz/24-bit sampling rate, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality. This is well beyond standard CD-quality audio, making it a great pick for professional recording.
One standout feature is the built-in noise reduction, which helps filter out background noise. Combined with its cardioid polar pattern, this results in clean and focused recordings. There’s also a 5-level noise reduction system, which includes a shock-absorbing diaphragm and high-porosity foam filter to block plosives and interference.
Maono’s Link software adds another layer of control, offering an intuitive EQ interface with limiters, compressors, and high-pass filters. The mic also features four preset modes tailored for different recording scenarios, making it easy to switch settings on the fly.
Real-time monitoring is covered too. The zero-latency 3.5mm headphone jack ensures you hear exactly what’s being recorded without any delay. USB and XLR connectivity allow for flexibility, whether you’re plugging directly into a PC or using an audio interface.
Performance-wise, the PD300X delivers. The dynamic capsule captures voice with warmth and clarity, making it great for podcasts and voice-overs. In gaming and streaming, it held up well, keeping speech crisp even in noisy environments.
For podcasting, the high sampling rate adds depth to vocals. However, at higher gain levels, some background noise crept in. Thankfully, the built-in noise reduction helped manage this effectively. The XLR output, when used with an audio interface, provided an even richer sound profile.
One minor issue was sensitivity to plosive sounds at default settings, which was fixable using a pop filter or adjusting the EQ settings. The mute button is a nice touch but could have used more tactile feedback.
After testing the Maono PD300X, it’s clear that this mic is a solid contender. The combination of USB and XLR makes it flexible, and the noise reduction and high sampling rate ensure great audio quality.
However, competition is tough. The Rode PodMic offers similar build and sound quality, while the Audio-Technica ATR2100x provides the same dual connectivity. The PD300X’s edge lies in its software customisation and noise reduction. The BA37 boom arm is a solid, well-built option, but its price is on the higher side. If you’re looking to save, a third-party boom arm might be a better call.
Overall, the Maono PD300X is a great microphone for streamers, podcasters, and musicians. It’s a well-rounded package that punches above its price.
